How to Grow Cordon Tomatoes: A Comprehensive Guide

Tomatoes are one of the most versatile crops to grow in your garden, and they come in a range of varieties. However, cordon tomatoes are different from others as they require specific care and attention during each stage of their growth.

If you're looking to learn how to grow cordon tomatoes successfully, this article is for you. In this guide, we will cover all aspects of growing cordon tomatoes, including soil preparation, planting, pruning, and harvesting.

What are Cordon Tomatoes?

Cordon tomatoes, also known as "indeterminate" or "vine" tomatoes, are plants that grow tall with a single stem, instead of bushing out like determinate tomato plants. They require support structures like cages or stakes to keep them upright and prevent them from falling over or breaking.

The name "cordon" comes from the French word "cordón," which means "string" or "line." This term reflects the method used to train these tomatoes by tying them to a vertical support system.

Soil Preparation

Before planting cordon tomatoes, you need to prepare the soil properly. Start by clearing the area of any weeds and debris. Then, loosen the soil using a fork or tiller and add organic matter like compost or aged manure to improve soil health and fertility.

Cordon tomatoes prefer well-draining soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0. If your soil is too acidic, you can add lime to raise the pH level.

Planting Cordon Tomatoes

When planting cordon tomatoes, space them at least two feet apart to allow air circulation and sunlight penetration, which helps reduce the risk of disease. Dig a hole deep enough to accommodate the root ball, and then place the plant gently into the hole.

After planting, water the tomato plant thoroughly and add a layer of mulch around the base to help retain moisture and suppress weed growth. Avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can lead to fungal diseases.

Pruning Cordon Tomatoes

Cordon tomatoes require regular pruning to ensure that they develop strong stems and produce healthy fruit. Start by removing the lower leaves from the stem, leaving only a few at the top of the plant.

As the plant grows, pinch off any new shoots that emerge in the leaf axils, as these will compete with the main stem for nutrients and water. Also, remove any suckers that develop between the stem and the leaf, as they can weaken the plant and reduce its yield.

When the tomato plant reaches its desired height, usually around six to eight feet, cut off the tip of the main stem to prevent further upward growth. This will encourage the plant to focus its energy on producing fruit instead of more foliage.

Harvesting Cordon Tomatoes

Cordon tomatoes typically ripen about 70 to 80 days after planting. You can tell when they're ready to harvest by their color and firmness. They should be bright red or yellow (depending on the variety) and slightly soft to the touch.

To harvest cordon tomatoes, grasp the fruit firmly and twist it gently until it detaches from the stem. Don't pull the fruit, as this can damage the plant and reduce its yield in the future.

Ripe tomatoes on the vine

Growing cordon tomatoes requires careful planning and attention to detail, but the end result is worth the effort. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you should be able to grow healthy, productive tomato plants that will provide you with a bountiful harvest for years to come.

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